Palladium Plaza

[ncwebguy]

Palladium Plaza could have gone higher along the *whole* block, not just at Blount/Davie without ruining the "view" from the top of the PE II parking deck. But it, like Founder's Row, are products of the economic environments of their time. Higher density bonuses offered in the Downtown Overlay District is increasing the density in projects like Hue. With projects like Charter Square in the pipeline, we (hopefully) won't have to worry about street level private/blank walls like the Paramount and the building on the west side of Nash Square.

If Founder's Row had shops along Davie, it would tie even more into City Market than it does now. But when it was built, the "downtown revitalization" of having any multifamily residences near the CBD was enough to let things like pedestrian appeal slide. At least City Market didn't fence off its parking the way Founders Row does/did. It gives the area an unsafe/prison/gated community feel, not that of an open, connected city. I hope development on the southern 2/3rds of the block (while saving/incorperating the Prince Hall Masons' Lodge/building!) will enliven the area.

It is crazy to think now that they couldn't sell more condos at Palladium Plaza, but that was the sentiment at the time. At first it was going to be like Park Deveruaux East, with *no* street level shops. But luckily someone intervened and the street level condos can be converted to retail, which allowed for 101 and whatever is going into the Cabarrus/Blount corner.

[Captain Awesome]

Based on the sign on the unit at Blount and Cabarrus on the first floor of the Palladium, it appears that the Barkery will occupy the space. They will prepare gourmet pet food. It's nice that this space is occupied, but I assume it will turn over rather quickly